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tomlevi
Reviews
Tuesdays with Morrie (1999)
A beautiful and warming story reflecting on the meaning of life.
If you have read Mitch Albom's book, like I had, you will not be at all disappointed. Jackson has done a tremendous job of transposing a truly wonderful story into film. Albom portrays the relationship between a young man (himself) and his mentor (Morrie Schwartz). The film transpires through the last few weeks of Morrie's life, and vividly recreates the final lessons of the former professor, in the throes of Lou Gehrigs disease. As one imagines how heart-warming it must have been for Albom to experience such a relationship first-hand, we can only try to draw from his inspiration and the tales conveyed in the film. A truly beautiful story - 10/10.
I strongly recommend that you read the book.
Tais-toi! (2003)
Francis Veber has done it again!
I have just returned from the cinema with a burst of energy!
Without doubt, this is THE funniest movie that I have ever seen in my life...be it in French or English. Francis Veber has produced a film that not only equals his earlier works, Le Placard (The Closet - 2001) and Le Diner de Cons (The Dinner Game - 1998), but surpasses them by miles. The entire cinema was rocking with laughter.
And without spoiling the comedy by disclosing some hillarious punchlines, I recommend this film to all cinema-goers, be they French- or English-speakers.
Do yourself a favour... GO AND SEE IT!
10/10.
Cold Mountain (2003)
Demonstrates the difference between a FILM and a movie...
Despite the critical user comments, I thought this film was superb. But don't expect to be sitting on the edge of your seat - it isn't the latest James Bond. Australian John Seale's cinematography was stunning (cf. 'Witness'), and with a dynamic soundtrack, the visual and aural imagery contrasted well with the rather morbid plot set in wintry USA. Thematically, the film presents a commentary on the values of war, juxtaposed with the hope brought about by love. Go and see it!
The Pianist (2002)
Very controversial film - personally, I found it rather dry.
Reading through the comments at IMDB.com, it seems that you will either love or hate this movie. Undoubtedly the content of the film lends itself to meaningful impact on the viewer. My personal preference lies, however, with Spielberg's "Schindler's List". I found "The Pianist", surprisingly, to be rather lacking in characterisation, and found the soundtrack in Spielberg's work, as well as juxtaposition of colours (with black/white), and use of motif, to be much more powerful and moving than Polanski's. Truly, a matter of preference. This film is undoubtedly an artistic, yet believable, depiction of war, and the sad values it encompasses.
Chocolat (2000)
A tale to tell
Many quibble when discussing Hallstrom's artistic work, but 'Chocolat' has a tale to tell. The film explores the compassion of man with dynamic tone. Indeed the moral of this fairy tale is tolerance, acceptance, of both individuals and their communities. The bright tone of the film is owed largely to the impressionable performance by Juliette Binoche (as Vianne). With a distinctly French setting, Hallstrom offers stimulating photography, an emotive soundtrack, and powerful motif, in his efforts to promote a community spirit, most effectively captivated in the final sequence. Unfortunately I was disappointed with the final scene, although nevertheless, the film suggests a renewed moral depth and a spiritual dimension, a common theme of the literary world in our increasingly secular and perhaps emotionally shallow society.
Quite a didactic film, and with an open mind, quite a satisfying film.
Les enfants du marais (1999)
Picturesque - a must see!
A masterpiece from Jean Becker, 'Les Enfants du Marais' is a stunning celebration of the spirit of the common man. The film features an admirable performance by Michel Serrault as 'Pépé', set in the picturesque French countryside. Dreujou's breath-taking photography makes the film a must for any French-loving film-goer.
A real feel good movie.